History of Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana

Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana has a colorful history dating back to 1882, when Momus, King of Mardi Gras, landed his royal yacht at the foot of Pujo Street. After this event, Mardi Gras was celebrated in a spirit which included Mardi Gras "runs" in Lake Charles and surrounding areas.

With the onset of a World War, this joyous occasion went "underground" for many years and was almost forgotten by the generations that had not experienced the festivities of the Mardi Gras season first hand. However, there were a few that wanted to keep this tradition alive, and the first Mardi Gras Ball in this area was staged in 1964.

Mardi Gras did not experience a full revival in Lake Charles until 1979, when several Krewe captains formed the "Krewe of Krewes" with the prime purpose of parading and promoting Mardi Gras for the Southwest Louisiana area. Just six years later in 1985, Mardi Gras of Imperial Calcasieu, Inc. was formed by a group of civic-minded volunteers, further enhancing and enlarging the modern day Mardi Gras celebration.

Mardi Gras of Imperial Calcasieu celebration begins January 6 with the annual Twelfth Night Revelry. The entire community, along with anyone who might wish to sample our Southwest Louisiana atmosphere during a most exciting season, is encouraged to come out and join in the merriment of Mardi Gras.